Name: Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green); 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup cooked jasmine rice; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed; 1 cup grated cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons taco seasoning; 1 cup salsa; Fresh cilantro, optional for garnish

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These stuffed peppers are a festive and delicious way to serve a comforting meal. With a flavorful filling of shredded chicken, rice, beans, salsa, and spices, then topped with melted cheddar, they’re hearty, wholesome, and perfect for a spooky-themed dinner. You can even carve little jack-o’-lantern faces into the peppers for a fun holiday twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These stuffed peppers are simple to make, nutrient-packed, and customizable. They combine lean protein from chicken, fiber from beans, and cheesy goodness for a balanced meal the whole family will enjoy. The twist makes them especially fun for kids, parties, or themed dinners. Plus, they’re baked in one dish, making cleanup easy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup cooked jasmine rice
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 cup salsa
Fresh cilantro, optional for garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. For a Halloween twist, carve jack-o’-lantern faces into the peppers before filling.
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked rice, black beans, taco seasoning, and salsa. Stir until evenly mixed.
Stuff the peppers tightly with the filling and place them upright in a baking dish.
Top each pepper with grated cheddar cheese.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the peppers are tender, the filling is heated through, and the cheese is slightly golden.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 stuffed peppers, serving 4 people.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Rest time: 5 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Use ground beef, turkey instead of shredded chicken.
Swap jasmine rice with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a lighter version.
Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for extra flavor.
Add corn or chopped vegetables like zucchini for more texture.
Make it vegetarian by skipping the chicken and doubling the beans.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals. Stuffed peppers can also be frozen for up to 2 months—wrap individually and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them up to a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.

Do I need to cook the peppers before stuffing?

No, they soften while baking, but if you prefer very tender peppers, you can parboil them for 2–3 minutes first.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.

How do I make these spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, hot salsa, or a pinch of cayenne to the filling.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

What type of salsa works best?

Any salsa works—mild, medium, or spicy depending on your taste. Chunky salsa adds extra texture.

Can I freeze stuffed peppers after baking?

Yes, cool completely, wrap in foil or plastic wrap, and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.

How can I make this dish more kid-friendly?

Stick to mild taco seasoning and salsa, and let kids help carve the pepper faces.

What sides go best with stuffed peppers?

A side salad, tortilla chips with guacamole, or roasted vegetables pair nicely.

Can I make mini stuffed peppers?

Yes, use small bell peppers or sweet mini peppers for bite-sized party snacks.

Conclusion

Shredded chicken and rice stuffed peppers are a hearty, wholesome, and fun meal that brings a festive twist to the dinner table. Easy to make, customizable, and crowd-pleasing, they’re perfect for family dinners, parties, or a spooky celebration. With their cheesy tops and flavorful filling, these peppers are sure to disappear fast.